Livingstone Lodge, the unique African safari experience at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park near Hythe, has won gold for The Best Tourism Experience in The Beautiful South Awards for Excellence 2011.

This year the winners were announced at a glittering ceremony held at Denbies English Vineyard in Dorking on 1st December.

Bob O’Connor Managing Director of Howletts and Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks said: "It’s an honour to win a gold award for Best Tourism Experience in The Beautiful South Awards for Excellence this year. It’'s a credit to all the staff who work so hard to make this such an exceptional product."

Livingstone Lodge is the only authentic overnight safari experience in the UK offering visitors a magical night under the stars, African fine dining and safari’s at dusk and the following morning. Since the lodge opened in 2007 it has been awarded many accolades including England’s Best Tourism Experience in 2010.

Livingstone Lodge

Bob said: "Livingstone Lodge is very popular because it is so authentic – it’s a window to Africa, a wonderful experience which underlines the importance of conservation. As you watch the wildebeest, rhino and giraffe wandering past the lodge you could imagine that you are in the heart of Africa."

John Williams, Chairman of Tourism South East said: "The award winners have shown that they are truly the best-in-class and we look forward to seeing them on the national stage at the Visit England Awards for Excellence 2012."

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©